Lessons from His Father: Focus and Perseverance

The Gstaad Guy sits down with Ronnie Kessel, CEO of Kessel Group, and co-founder of The I.C.E. St. Moritz, to explore a life shaped by speed, discipline, and a deep-rooted passion for the automotive world. From early dreams of becoming a racing driver and competing at the highest levels of motorsport, to inheriting the responsibility of the family business, following his father’s passing, Ronnie reflects on the pivotal moments that defined both his career and his character.

The conversation dives into the transition from racing to leadership within Kessel Group, the balance between competition, dealership life, and classic cars, and why heritage matters as much as performance. Ronnie shares his perspective on how motorsport has evolved, the growing intersection of luxury and racing, and the shared values between craftsmanship in fashion and precision on the track. From obsession with perfection to lessons learned at iconic races such as the 24 Hours of Spa, this is a candid look at ambition, responsibility, and the enduring romance of cars.

Filmed in Andermatt, Switzerland.

Chapters:

(00:00) Intro ✨

(03:18) Racing 🏎️💨

(04:44) F1 & Family 🏁👨‍👩‍👦

(06:49) Sport Today 🏟️⚡

(09:03) From Racing To The Family Business 🏎️➡️🏢

(12:17) Racing, Dealership, or Vintage Cars? 🏁🚗

(13:16) I.C.E. St Moritz 🧊🚘

(14:36) Inheriting Responsibility 🧬⚖️

(17:18) Then vs. Now ⏳🔄

(19:17) C.A.R.S. 🚗📐

(19:57) Racing As A Fashion 🏎️👗

(21:13) Specialising vs. Expanding 🎯🌱

(25:43) Importance Of Classic Cars & Heritage 🚘🏛️

(27:01) What Do People Think Of Cars? 🤔🚗

(30:46) Formula 1 🏎️🏁

(34:24) 24 Hours of Spa ⏱️🏎️

(36:43) Intersection of Luxury, Motorsport & Performance 💎🏎️

(39:46) Shared Values Between Racing & Loro Piana 🤝🏻🧵

(40:51) Perfection & Obsession 🎯🔥

(43:37) Lessons Learnt 📘💡

(45:49) Advice To Younger Self 🪞💬

(50:54) Entering The Automotive World 🚪🚗

(53:14) À La Poubelle vs. Fantastique 🗑️✨

(55:18) Dream Three-Car Garage 🚗

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